Authorities believe he was responding to the area after neighbors reported seeing the "suspicious" vehicle stopped in the road.

He was on duty and in his patrol vehicle at the time of the crash.

According to the Highway Patrol, the 27-year-old tried to brake when he saw the truck in the road. But it was too late. Authorities said he was not wearing a seatbelt and did not survive the impact.

Officials with the Highway Patrol said 46-year-old Derrick Sheffield was trying to tow the vehicle but then left it behind unattended, which is against the law. He was charged with misdemeanor death by vehicle and leaving a vehicle unattended.

Derrick Sheffield

Troopers say 38-year-old Timmy Dixon is charged with leaving the scene of an accident and misdemeanor death by vehicle

The Rocky Mount Police Department said Driver was hired on Feb. 5, 2013, and was promoted to the rank of Senior Police Officer on Aug. 26, 2017.

"The Rocky Mount Police Department is truly saddened by the loss of Officer Driver. Our hearts and prayers go out to his family and friends. We ask everyone to please respect the privacy of Officer Driver's family during this time of bereavement."